- Asif urges Afghanistan not to allow militants to operate against Pakistan.
- He says Pakistan hosted Haqqani and millions of Afghan refugees for decades.
- Recalls NATO logistical support provided by Pakistan after 9/11, despite later allegations.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Saturday reminded Afghan Taliban leader Sirajuddin Haqqani of Pakistan’s past hospitality and support during the anti-Soviet war, while urging Afghan authorities to ensure that their territory is not used against Pakistan.
In an article on X, the minister said Pakistan stood “heart and soul” with Afghan fighters during the Soviet-Afghan war.
He said Pakistan had welcomed Haqqani and his family, as well as millions of Afghan refugees, adding that many Afghan refugees still live in Pakistan and “earn their living on our sacred soil.”
Asif said the two sides fought a common war during the Soviet era, adding that the objective of the era was shaped by the United States.
Referring to the period after the September 11 attacks, he said Pakistan supported NATO logistics but was later accused of facilitating the Haqqani network.
“We were asked where you were. Do you remember?” he said, asking Afghan leaders to clarify whether the accusations against Pakistan were true.
The minister said that between 1979 and the post-9/11 period, the United States reduced its engagement with Pakistan and Afghanistan while Islamabad attempted to reconcile Afghan factions.
He added that Pakistan had even taken rival Afghan groups to Mecca for reconciliation efforts.
Asif expressed concern that despite decades of hospitality, Pakistan was now facing violence from groups allegedly operating from Afghan soil.
“Why do you shelter those who kill our innocent children and people? he asked, adding that militants targeting Pakistan were protected and treated as allies.
He said he visited Kabul and asked Afghan leaders not to align themselves with groups hostile to Pakistan.
“We asked you not to support them. We were even ready to provide financial assistance if necessary, but there were no guarantees,” he said.
The defense minister said the lineage associated with the Haqqani name was historically respected and should be honored.
“We ask you nothing. Live in peace in your own house and let us live in peace in ours,” he said.
He warned that Pakistan did not want its enemies to be given sanctuary or allowed to operate from Afghan territory.
“Let them be hosted in your country if you wish, but do not play the role of our enemy by allowing your soil to be used against us,” he stressed.
“Our tradition, our culture and our religion teach us to wish good luck to the house that serves as our refuge.”
“God is great. Pakistan Zindabad,” he added concluding the message.
